Meet the keynote speakers for the IZE Conference 2026

20 July, 2026 - Blog, Events, Foundation, Education, IZE

This year marks a milestone for the Two Oceans Aquarium as we proudly host the 27th International Zoo Educators (IZE) Conference in Cape Town. This is only the second time in the conference's history that it has been held in Africa!

As zoo and aquarium educators from around the world come together to share ideas, celebrate innovation, and strengthen their collective impact, we are honoured to welcome three exceptional keynote speakers: Dr Gcina Mhlophe, Dave Morgan, and Loyiso Dunga. Each brings a unique perspective on storytelling, conservation, leadership, and connection, setting the stage for thought-provoking conversations that will inspire delegates throughout the conference.

Dr Gcina Mhlophe

An acclaimed storyteller, poet, author, performer, and literacy advocate, Dr Gcina Mhlophe is one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural voices. Her extraordinary career spans decades of inspiring audiences through storytelling that connects people, cultures, and generations. Her many honours include the SAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award, South African Music Award (SAMA), SA Children’s Laureate Award, and numerous international recognitions for her contributions to literature, education, and the arts.

As the driving force behind initiatives such as the Nozincwadi International Storytelling Festival and Literacy Campaign and the award-winning Africa Story Magic podcast, Gcina continues to champion the power of stories to educate, inspire, and create change.

Join us at IZE Conference 2026 as we welcome this remarkable storyteller whose work reminds us of the vital role stories play in building understanding, empathy, and connection across our global community.

Dave Morgan

A highly respected leader in the global zoo and aquarium community, Dave Morgan has spent more than four decades advancing animal welfare, conservation, and professional practice. Beginning his career in South Africa in 1981, he went on to lead both the Transvaal Snake Park and Montecasino Bird Gardens before becoming the first Director of the Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria (PAAZAB). Through leadership roles with WAZA, Species360, and numerous international conservation, ethics, welfare, and population management initiatives, Dave has helped shape the profession's direction worldwide.

As a co-founder of Wild Welfare, Dave works internationally to improve welfare standards for animals under human care, supporting institutions across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

At IZE 2026, Dave will explore the vital role of animal welfare in interpretation and education, sharing practical insights on how welfare-centred messaging can strengthen visitor trust, deepen learning, and make conservation action more meaningful and impactful.

Loyiso Dunga

A marine biologist, conservationist, and ocean advocate, Loyiso’s work sits at the intersection of natural and social science, exploring how people and nature can thrive together. Originally from the highlands of South Africa’s Wild Coast, he is passionate about understanding and protecting the “forests of the ocean” and reconnecting communities with the natural world.

Currently serving as an Executive Director for the Seas of Good Hope World Heritage Nomination project (South Africa). Loyiso is helping shape a future where cultural and natural heritage are protected together. He is also working with Two Oceans Aquarium, Mission Blue, and communities around False Bay to advance community-led ocean conservation.

Join us at IZE Conference 2026 as Loyiso shares his inspiring journey, insights from the ocean’s frontlines, and a powerful vision for restoring our relationship with nature through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action.